Hassenfeld Institute for Public Leadership

Overview

The Hassenfeld Institute for Public Leadership provides public officials and others involved in the development, management, and execution of public policy with the tools and skills needed to make informed decisions and manage responsive organizations in order to govern and lead public sector and non-profit organizations effectively.

Customized Programs

The Institute’s programs enable connections among people serving in state and local government. They are customized to meet the unique needs of participants. Sessions cover such topics as:

Management

Leadership

Negotiation and conflict resolution

Transitioning from campaigning to governing

Economics and fiscal policies

Crisis management and decision-making

Public engagement

Quality assurance and control

Operations management

Ensuring accountability

Faculty

The Institute draws upon the renowned expertise of Bryant University faculty, including:

Perspectives

"The need for a program like this in Rhode Island is critical. This is just one example of the University's vision of fostering character and leadership -- not only among our students, alumni and faculty, but within the state of Rhode Island as well."

– Ronald K. Machtley, President, Bryant University

"We are nonpartisan. We discuss techniques officials can use to make sure they are getting a wide range of opinions and ideas to ensure that they're not just hearing from people who agree with them. We talk about the importance of constructive conflict and dialogue, how they don't want their staffs afraid to tell them the truth."

– Michael A. Roberto, Trustee Professor of Management

"By working with the Institute's core group of faculty experts, municipal leaders can develop and strengthen skills they will need to face pressing issues head-on."

"This is a forum to have a real discussion about what the future is and can be, without the politics involved. It was very powerful walking into a group of officials...all with the goal of doing the right thing."

– Scott Avedisian, Mayor, City of Warwick, RI

“I can't tell you enough how helpful the program was to the team. In fact, this week as we worked through many of the issues Pawtucket is faced with, we continuously reflected back to the information provided this past weekend.”

– Donald Grebien, Mayor, City of Pawtucket, RI

The Hassenfeld Institute for Public Leadership is supported by a gift from Hassenfeld Family Initiatives.